Bhopal: Former President APJ Abdul Kalam here on Wednesday advised the trainee officials of All India Services and Central Services to set long-term goals for achieving success in their respective areas of functioning.

"I advise you all to set long-term goals for achieving success in administrative services," Kalam said while addressing the 87th Foundation Course of the trainee officials at the RCPV Naronha Academy of Administration.

Kalam said the aspiration and resultant striving to achieve the goal will help them tackling difficult situations.

He also advised them to do "image branding". "Once done, nobody would dare to approach you for sanctioning illegal work or exert pressure on you," he said.

Kalam also awarded medals and citations to those officers who have excelled in their batches.

General Administration Minister Kanhaiyalal Agrawal and Academy's Director General Abha Asthana also spoke on the occasion.